Are you tired of the same old boring salads? Do you crave something that’s not only delicious but also satisfying and filling? Look no further! Creamy chicken pasta salad recipes are here to save the day. With a medley of flavors, textures, and ingredients, these salads are perfect for any occasion.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delectable creamy chicken pasta salad recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From classic Caesar to spicy buffalo, and from Mediterranean to Thai peanut, there’s something for everyone in this comprehensive list.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a hearty dinner option, these salads are sure to please. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of creamy chicken pasta salad recipes!
Classic Caesar Chicken Pasta Salad
A timeless favorite, this creamy pasta salad combines the flavors of juicy chicken, crunchy romaine, and tangy Caesar dressing for a quick and satisfying meal or snack. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dressing and ingredients.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time)
Avocado Lime Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the protein-packed goodness of chicken. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, lime juice, olive oil, and honey. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time for pasta)
Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad
A creamy and savory pasta salad that combines the flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bow tie or penne work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, crispy and crumbled
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. Pour in ranch dressing and toss to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dressing mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side to impress your guests. With the combination of juicy chicken, tangy feta cheese, and sweet cherry tomatoes, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed greens (e.g., arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. Add cooked chicken breast, pasta, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including chilling time)
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad recipe combines the flavors of buffalo chicken wings with a refreshing pasta salad, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp. ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce and ranch dressing.
3. Add chicken, pasta, blue cheese, and cilantro to the bowl; toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (not including chilling time)
Greek Yogurt Chicken Pasta Salad
Combine the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the flavors of chicken and pasta for a light and satisfying salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked pasta (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, pasta, and chopped parsley/dill (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken-pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, grilled chicken, and pasta, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or potluck. With its vibrant colors and tangy dressing, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, chopped chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of creamy pesto, juicy chicken, and tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, pesto sauce, parsley, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this refreshing summer recipe that combines the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken with the tanginess of a zesty vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz. penne pasta
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through; chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta, chicken, red bell pepper, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl; toss to combine.
5. Drizzle with BBQ sauce and toss again to coat.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this Thai-inspired dish combines the flavors of peanut sauce, grilled chicken, and crunchy vegetables for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp. peanut butter
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 2 tbsp. honey
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Grill chicken until cooked through, then slice into strips.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the peanut sauce, chicken, bell peppers, cucumber, salt, and pepper.
5. Top with chopped peanuts and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, chicken, and pasta for a light and satisfying meal or snack. Perfect for warm weather, this dish is quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Grill or cook chicken breast until cooked through. Slice into strips.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and parsley to the bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Pasta Salad
This flavorful pasta salad combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a tangy chipotle sauce, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its smoky heat and fresh herbs, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. Toss with the chipotle sauce.
5. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of chicken and pasta. This Caprese-inspired dish is perfect for a light and easy meal or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Asian-inspired dish combines the flavors of sesame, soy sauce, and ginger with cooked chicken, vegetables, and noodles. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. sesame oil
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger.
3. Add cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, and green onions to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the sauce.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Pasta Salad
A creamy and savory pasta salad that combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, chicken, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, spinach, artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious recipe that combines the flavors of jalapeño poppers with chicken and pasta. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cream cheese softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream cheese, mayonnaise, cilantro, jalapeño, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Salad
This hearty salad combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and chicken with pasta, making it a satisfying and filling meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow tie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp. dried basil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with garlic until cooked through.
4. Toss cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and parsley.
5. Add chicken mixture and stir to combine.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and basil.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Feta Olive Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the tanginess of feta cheese with the brininess of olives, all tossed with cooked chicken and pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bow tie)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice; pour over the chicken mixture.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Chicken Pasta Salad
This creamy and flavorful salad combines cooked chicken, pasta, and vegetables with a hint of curry powder, perfect for a quick and easy meal or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp. curry powder
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, veggies, mayonnaise, curry powder, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook salad!
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this sweet and tangy combination of juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let cool.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together garlic and balsamic glaze. Pour the mixture over cooled chicken and toss to coat.
4. Combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, and glazed chicken in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy and delicious world of chicken pasta salad recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes offers a wide range of flavors and cuisines. From classic Caesar to spicy Buffalo, and from Mediterranean to Asian-inspired, there’s something for everyone. With a focus on creamy sauces and succulent chicken, these salads are perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy, savory, or bold, this list has got you covered.
